Noah Sinclair
Pregnancy brings about a lot of changes in a woman's body, and this includes changes to hair and nails. While some women may experience faster nail growth and harder nails, others may find that their nails become more brittle and prone to splitting or breaking. These changes are caused by an increase in hormones, specifically androgens and estrogen, as well as increased intake of folate and biotin from prenatal vitamins. The changes in nail growth and texture are temporary and usually return to normal after childbirth.
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What You'll Learn
Pregnancy hormones cause nail growth
Pregnancy is a time of great change for a woman's body. One of the most noticeable changes is the increase in hair and nail growth. While some women embrace their thicker hair and longer nails, others may find the changes less desirable, especially if they experience nail brittleness, groove formation, or onycholysis (separation of the nail from the nail bed).
The surge in hormones during pregnancy, such as androgens, estrogen, human chorionic gonadotropin, progesterone, and prolactin, is the primary driver of nail growth. These hormones not only affect hair and nail growth but also impact the skin, resulting in stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, and acne. The increased levels of estrogen, in particular, prolong the growth phase of hair follicles, preventing them from entering the resting and shedding phase. This leads to thicker hair and less shedding, contributing to the overall increase in hair volume during pregnancy.
The hormonal changes also influence nail growth, causing nails to grow faster and become stronger. However, the increased growth rate can sometimes be accompanied by nail brittleness, making nails more susceptible to splitting, tearing, and breaking. To mitigate these issues, it is recommended to wear rubber gloves when doing dishes or cleaning and to use a moisturizer on the hands and nails. Ensuring adequate intake of biotin-rich foods, such as nuts, eggs, oatmeal, spinach, broccoli, bananas, and whole grains, can also help improve nail health.
It is important to note that these changes in nail growth and texture are temporary. After childbirth, as hormone levels return to their pre-pregnancy state, nail growth and texture should normalize. However, it may take some time for the nails to regain their pre-pregnancy condition, with fingernails typically recovering within three to six months and toenails taking up to nine months to a year.
While nail changes during pregnancy are primarily attributed to hormonal fluctuations, other factors, such as increased intake of folate and biotin from prenatal vitamins, may also play a role. Additionally, individual factors, such as genetics and overall health, can influence how nail growth is affected during this time.
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Nails become brittle and weak
While some women experience longer and stronger nails during pregnancy, others may find that their nails become weaker and more brittle. This is due to a surge in pregnancy hormones, specifically an increase in androgens, which can also cause changes in hair and skin. Nails may also become more brittle due to a lack of biotin in the diet. Biotin is a B-complex vitamin that can improve nail firmness, hardness, and thickness. It can be obtained from nuts, eggs, oatmeal, spinach, broccoli, bananas, and whole grains.
Pregnant women can protect their nails by wearing rubber gloves when doing the dishes or cleaning and by using moisturizer on their hands, especially the skin surrounding the nails and on the nails themselves. Weak and brittle nails are drier than strong nails, so moisturizing several times a day can help. Painting nails with clean, strengthening nail polish can also help, but this should be done in a well-ventilated room.
It is important to note that this effect is only temporary, and nails should return to normal after giving birth. However, living with nails that chip and break off daily for nearly ten months can be challenging. Therefore, taking the necessary steps to protect and strengthen the nails is crucial during pregnancy.
Additionally, it is recommended to refrain from taking prenatal vitamins unless pregnant or breastfeeding. Taking prenatal supplements when not pregnant can expose individuals to high levels of nutrients that may be harmful.
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Nails may develop white spots
Pregnancy hormones can cause your nails to grow more quickly than normal. However, some women experience nail woes during pregnancy, including white lines or dots (leukonychia). Leukonychia is a benign condition and was observed in 24.4% of pregnant women in one study. It is believed to be caused by elevated estrogen levels increasing blood flow in the nail matrix, leading to keratohyaline granule retention.
Leukonychia presents as white spots or lines on the nails. These spots or lines are typically milky white, but they can also appear in other colours, such as red, brown, or even green. They can be small or cover the entire nail. Leukonychia can occur in anyone, at any age, but it is more common in pregnant women due to the increase in estrogen levels.
The appearance of white spots or lines on the nails during pregnancy is usually harmless and will resolve on its own without treatment. However, if the leukonychia is accompanied by other nail changes, such as thickening, splitting, or brittleness, it may be a sign of a nutrient deficiency or other underlying condition. Therefore, it is important to maintain a healthy diet during pregnancy, ensuring adequate intake of nutrients like biotin, which is essential for nail health.
Additionally, it is recommended to take extra care of your nails during pregnancy. This includes wearing rubber gloves when doing dishes or cleaning and using a moisturiser on your hands and nails, especially if they are brittle. These measures can help prevent nail breakage and splitting, which are common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and nutrient deficiencies.
If you notice persistent or severe nail changes during pregnancy, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your individual situation and provide personalised advice or treatment options to help manage any nail concerns during this special time in your life.
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Nails can split, tear, and break
During pregnancy, your nails may grow faster and thicker. However, hormonal changes can also make your nails more prone to splitting, tearing, and breaking.
Causes of Nail Splitting, Tearing, and Breaking
There are several factors that can cause nail splitting, tearing, and breaking during pregnancy. One of the most common causes is a lack of certain vitamins and nutrients in your diet. For example, a deficiency in biotin, a B-complex vitamin, can lead to brittle nails that are more prone to breakage. Other vitamins and nutrients that are important for nail health include vitamins A, C, D, and E, as well as iron, zinc, and calcium.
Another factor that can contribute to nail problems is overexposure to moisture. This can occur when you frequently wash dishes, wash your hands, or use nail polish and remover. The chemicals in nail polish and removers can weaken your nails over time, making them more susceptible to splitting and breaking. Additionally, frequent exposure to water can cause your nails to become brittle and more easily breakable.
Underlying medical conditions, such as thyroid problems, anemia, or psoriasis, can also affect nail health. In some cases, nail infections, such as fungal or bacterial infections, can change the texture of your nails, making them weaker and more prone to splitting and tearing.
Preventing and Managing Nail Splitting, Tearing, and Breaking
To prevent and manage nail splitting, tearing, and breaking during pregnancy, there are several steps you can take:
- Ensure you are getting enough vitamins and nutrients, such as biotin, through your diet or supplements.
- Protect your nails by wearing gloves when doing dishes, cleaning, or any other activities that involve frequent exposure to water or chemicals.
- Avoid using harsh nail polishes and acetone-based nail polish removers, as these can weaken your nails over time.
- Keep your nails clean and moisturized. Use a moisturizer on your nails and cuticles, and consider using nail hardening products if necessary.
- If your nails are already split or torn, you can temporarily fix them using clear nail polish or nail glue. However, this is not a long-term solution, and you may need to see a doctor if the split extends into your nail bed.
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Protect your nails with gloves and moisturiser
Pregnancy can bring about several changes in your body, and your nails are no exception. While some women experience thicker, stronger, and faster-growing nails, others may notice their nails becoming more brittle and prone to breakage. To protect your nails during pregnancy, it is important to take extra care and adopt certain habits, such as wearing gloves and using moisturiser.
Wearing gloves can act as a protective barrier for your nails and hands, safeguarding them from potential damage and irritants. When performing household chores, such as washing dishes or cleaning, don rubber gloves to prevent prolonged exposure to water and chemicals, which can dry out your nails and skin. Similarly, if you're handling nail products with strong chemicals, don protective gloves to minimise direct contact with your skin. This is especially important if you work as a nail technician, as daily exposure to certain chemicals may pose risks during pregnancy.
In addition to wearing gloves, incorporating a moisturiser into your nail care routine is essential. Moisturising your hands and nails regularly, especially after washing or exposure to water, can help maintain hydration and prevent dryness. Pay special attention to the skin surrounding your nails, as well as your cuticles, to keep them supple and healthy. Look for moisturisers or hand creams that are nourishing and suitable for pregnancy.
If you're considering nail treatments, such as gel manicures, UV protection is crucial. Opt for fingerless UV-protective gloves to shield your hands from UV light exposure during the curing process. Alternatively, you can apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to your hands and nails before the treatment. These precautions help prevent premature ageing and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
When choosing nail polishes, opt for water-based, non-flammable, and hypoallergenic options. Avoid polishes that contain formaldehyde, toluene, or phthalates, as these chemicals may be harmful. Prioritise your health and the safety of your unborn child by always reading labels and selecting non-toxic, pregnancy-safe products.
Lastly, maintaining proper nail care practices is essential. Keep your nails trimmed and filed to a comfortable length. Avoid the habit of nail-biting, as it can weaken your nails and lead to infections. Prioritise a healthy diet rich in biotin, such as nuts, eggs, oatmeal, spinach, broccoli, bananas, and whole grains, to promote nail health from within.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, an influx of hormones can cause nails to grow faster and become stronger.
Pregnancy nail changes may include brittleness, groove formation, or a separation of the nail from the nail bed called onycholysis. Nails may also break, tear, and split more easily.
You can protect your nails by wearing rubber gloves when doing the dishes or cleaning, and by using moisturizer on your hands, especially on the skin surrounding the nail and on the nails, particularly if they're brittle.
Yes, besides nail changes, you may also experience hair growth in new spots on your body, such as your face, chest, belly, and arms. Your hair may also feel thicker and fuller due to higher levels of estrogen prolonging the growth phase, resulting in less shedding of hair. Your skin may also exhibit changes such as stretch marks, acne, and increased pigmentation, often referred to as the "pregnancy glow."
